Jamae (she / siya) was drawn to stories even before she could walk or read. Despite her changing interests through the years, stories followed her wherever she went. At age 8, her journey in movement and writing began.
While starting informal dance training on Guam with her church’s Worship Dance Ministry, her third grade teacher fostered her love for books. From then, she wove between dancing (ballet, modern / contemporary, jazz, hip hop, tap) and writing (poetry, micro fiction, short stories, novels). These were her safe spaces.
In 2015, Jamae moved from her island home on Guam to the quirky, artistic scene in Portland, Oregon, in order to pursue her commitment to both practices.
Preparing for applications and auditions to MFA Dance programs, she enrolled in Portland Community College’s Dance Department (which has since been absorbed into the Physical Education Department) as well as worked with local companies, including Rejoice! Diaspora Dance Theater and 11: Dance Co.
In addition, she has been working through her two novels—Shift and Rain—while also submitting short works to publications. Her micro fiction piece “‘Round” appeared in Taking the Lane’s anthology Dragon Bike in 2019 through Microcosm Publishing.
Within movement artistry and writing, her aim is to explore concepts of belonging, connection, and thriving. She will persist in crafting her stories in whatever form they take so she can produce performances and publish books on books on books.
Jamae is a multipassionate who crafts stories through words and movement.
Review her CV, which includes her educational background, original works, performances, and teaching / leadership experience.
Also, find her Artist Statement here and view her full portfolio here.
Current + Past Projects:
- Last Words | Issue Submission
- #JamaeJournals100Days | Challenge
- ‘Round | Anthology Submission
- Advent | Collaboration
- Shift | Novel
- Untitled | Improv
Jamae is available for freelance work. Click here to learn more.
